For a small town, Milton has a remarkably large number of architecturally historic buildings and homes. Many have been relatively unscathed by recent owners, so those who have a passion for restoring and "saving" beautiful old homes and commercial structures would do well to look at what Milton has to offer. In fact, it has been said that Milton has more examples and diversity in historic building architecture than any other town in the entire county. As you tour this website you may see many of the structures that make the town so picturesque.
Real estate values, while trending upward, are still quite reasonable by most standards and make the dream of restoring an old home quite possible for many. Examples of older homes that have been, or are in the process of being, restored or renovated, in keeping with their original style or period, are shown here. Note that many did not appear very historic or particularly exciting or interesting until vinyl or asbestos siding was removed or wooden shutters were rehung. There are many "hidden treasures" just waiting to be uncovered or discovered. And "adventurers" are sought!
Design and renovation firms are available to assist those with the dream but not the vision, and Milton has a Historic Preservation Committee (appointed by Mayor) that would be more than willing to offer newcomers advice and guidance as well. Saving our architectural delights and preserving our unique heritage is important. As an old shipbuilding village, some homes have floors made from wide plank boards removed from sailing vessels. Others have carvings, stained glass windows and beautiful newel posts of oak and walnut. Examples of hand-hewn wood beams exist in many of the cellars of our 18th and early 19th century homes, along with square head nails and mortise-and-tenon joinery. Brickwork has been laid in herringbone designs, undoubtedly by local Milton craftsmen; Milton was home to more than one brick-making facility in the early 1900's. Milton's history is rich and one can easily research which homes once housed a haberdashery, candy store, pharmacy, general store, and more.
Residents who have spent a few hours studying the history of Milton and the prior owners of their homes can recite countless stories about who was a butcher, a button-maker, an officer in the War of 1812, a sea captain, or died in Andersonville prison as a Civil War soldier.
Combining a love of history and an appreciation for architecture, many Milton residents have been changing the face of Milton. New life is being breathed back into beautiful old structures, hardwood floors are being uncovered and refinished to a luster, gardens are being fed and nurtured back to life with plantings of flowers and shrubs once prevalent here years ago, and history is being revived. Milton's Historic Preservation Committee works to promote quality renovation, preservation of key examples of architecture and history, and awareness of the National guidelines for historic preservation and renovation.
The Milton Development Corporation is focusing attention on the preservation and renovation of commercial sites within the town, which serve to support economic development. Investors and businesses are encouraged to learn more about their efforts and to participate in their efforts. Milton Town Council members, along with the Mayor, have done much to enhance the streets of Milton, with brick sidewalks and turn-of-the-century style streetlights. Many people, working together, are contributing to the beautification of our small town - and it shows!
Historic Milton's most recent Christmas House Tour allowed visitors and residents an opportunity to view many homes with diverse histories and architectural delights. Some had already been totally renovated and some were (and still are) a work in progress. Local residents love to share ideas, accomplishments, garden seeds and cuttings, and renovation talents. We are a friendly people. Visit us soon to experience our hospitality and our homes. If you do, you may wish to make Milton your home, or "home away form home" and tackle a restoration or renovation project (large or small) of your own!